AT A GLANCE
John Ganta
Assistant Professor – Senior Scale
Area of Practice:
OVERVIEW
John Ganta is the Head of Studies for Year 3 Undergraduate Visual Communications and Strategic Branding at SMI. With a robust background in creative direction and strategic branding, John has led various interdisciplinary projects that blend creativity, strategy, and social impact. As an artist, he has collaborated with leading brands like Audi, Dewar’s, and INDDEE Bangkok, developing campaigns and visual narratives that resonate globally. Over the last two years he has spearheaded BLR Design Week as Creative Director. He holds an MBA in Finance from Manipal University, Dubai, and a BA in Media & Communications from Hope College, Michigan.
John teaches across undergraduate and masters programs in design, business, and general studies, contributing to the strategic development of interdisciplinary learning at SMI. His pedagogical approach is grounded in practice, informed by over two decades of experience in brand strategy, communication systems, and symbolic storytelling. He designs and facilitates units that equip students to connect vision with structure, theory with lived application, and creativity with systemic insight. His teaching emphasizes clarity, values-led design, and the cultivation of reflective, adaptive practices across disciplines.
In addition to his classroom role, John actively contributes to program-level curriculum reform and final-year student mentorship. His teaching is further enriched by his ongoing involvement in public-facing design initiatives through partnerships with the Association of Designers of India and the World Design Organisation. These collaborations have led to his creative direction and programming leadership in events such as Bangalore Design Week, Folkluru Festival, and the Protopolis Conclave—extending his educational impact into the civic and cultural domain.
EDUCATION
- Master in Business Administration, Finance, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai
- Bachelor of Arts, Communication & Media, Hope College, Michigan
WORK EXPERIENCE
INTEREST AREAS
John’s research interests are rooted in the exploration of semiotics, branding, and immersive media experiences. He examines how visual symbols and narratives within branding shape cultural identity and influence technological advancements. His work often explores the power of immersive media to create compelling, multidimensional experiences that engage audiences on a deeper level. By integrating semiotic analysis with innovative media practices, John aims to develop strategies that effectively communicate complex ideas and drive social impact.
CURRENT PRACTICE AT SRISHTI
At SMI, John is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of creative professionals. As Head of Studies for Year 3 Undergraduate Visual Communications and Strategic Branding, he focuses on integrating innovative pedagogical approaches with real-world project-based learning, preparing students for the dynamic challenges of the creative industries.
TEACHING PORTFOLIO
CREATIVE PRACTICE & OUTREACH
John has established a dynamic professional practice as both a creative consultant and artist. His portfolio features collaborations with prominent international brands, where he has played a key role in crafting compelling visual narratives and developing strategies that have achieved global recognition, with brands ranging from Audi to Puma.
